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Storm erupts over Albanese leadership speculation

NSW right powerbroker Sam Dastyari has tried to scuttle speculation that Bill Shorten will face a leadership contest against Anthony Albanese.

In an appearance on Sky News, an agitated Mr Dastyari said the speculation was “ridiculous” and he had no idea where the story was coming from.

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“Of course the Labor Party’s going to end up sticking with Bill Shorten,” he said.

“You know what they are doing today in a whole bunch of marginal seats … they are erecting statues to Bill Shorten.”

Party sources have allegedly told Sky News that Mr Albanese has the support of powerbrokers from Labor’s left and right factions to take the leadership.

While rules provide for the possibility of a leadership spill if Labor loses the election, frontbencher Richard Marles said he didn’t think the result at this point necessarily triggered those rules.

Mr Marles is adamant Mr Shorten’s has strong support.

“Last night was a fantastic win for Labor and a fantastic win for Bill Shorten,” he said.

Mr Albanese lost a leadership contest against Mr Shorten in the wake of Labor’s 2013 election loss.

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